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THE DARLING BUDS OF MAY
Victoria Players
Burgate School Theatre
Fordingbridge


THE DARLING BUDS OF MAY, VICTORIA PLAYERS, BURGATE SCHOOL, FORDINGBRIDGE. What a joy to be transported to summer 1957 and the Kentish farmhouse of the Larkins where this heart-warming play takes root. Barry Robbins quickly settled to the demanding role of Pop with a finger in many a pie, a neat wrist flick for the cocktail shaker and an eye for the female of the species. Rarely off-stage, Barry showed great depth in his characterisation of the loveable head of the family. As Ma, Sarah Pollard was comely, alluring and always laughing,
shepherding Pop and the brood of lively youngsters, Victoria played by Victoria Barnett, Petunia and Zinnia (Rose Bailey and Sophie Court) and Montgomery (Liam Raymond). A fine debut with the Players for Frances Dawes who was an ideal Mariette while Nick Bryant shone as shy Charley who delivered the tax forms and never left. The supporting cast of neighbours and visitors all excelled, as did the team responsible for sound and lighting effects. The stunning fireworks scene was as sparkling as the direction (by Linda Shaw) and full marks also for a first-class set.
An evening that was perfick, just perfick and a fitting tribute to the late Bernard Wilson, a much-loved, respected and missed stalwart of the Victoria Players.

Pat Scott
Courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo


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